DIRECTIONS CANADA

QUALIFIED DESIGNATION

Written by: RANDALL KEITH, RRTS®

The Canadian delivery system at present does not use or require persons to have a qualified designation such as RRTS®. Funding agencies require funding justifications from usually occupational therapists, physical therapists or physicians to secure the release of funds, but that does not say the individual has specific training in rehab technology. The supplier of such technology or vendor, while having all good intentions of giving assistance, may not have specific education, training or general knowledge to provide the best device and set up for functional use.

Vendors use terms such as rehab consultant or mobility specialist, but these do not relate the actual qualifications of the individual. RRTS® set a baseline for standards and adds reassurance to the client and funding source. Obtaining the RRTS® designation through NRRTS represents a higher commitment as a supplier. The RRTS® designation through NRRTS shows you are a proud a member of this industry, that you have that baseline of knowledge and excellence

and adhere to a set of ethics and standards set by this international organization. It also shows you continue taking continuing education needed for renewal to raise your knowledge and skills, so you may continue to serve your clients in a professional and ethical manner.

If you are interested in contributing a short article or have a question you would like answered in DIRECTIONS Canada, please email Amy Odom at aodom@nrrts.org.

CONTACT THE AUTHOR: Randall may be reached at RANDALLKEITH@ROGERS.COM

Randall Keith is a professional sales representative with over 40 years of experience specializing in wheelchairs, seating and related durable medical devices. Joining the industry in 1974 with Everest & Jennings CDN Ltd., he has worked with various Canadian and U.S. manufacturers in the development of new and innovative products to help better the lives of people with specific physical needs. In 1988, he co-founded the Ontario Seating & Mobility Conference in Toronto, which later became the Canadian Seating & Mobility Conference and served on their board for 14 years. Keith moved from manufacturing to vendor sales in 1999, specializing in power mobility and clients with high intensity needs. Keith recently attained his RRTS® designation with NRRTS and is also a certified member of the Canadian Professional Sales Association. Keith has presented at national conferences in Canada and has received various sales recognition awards. He continues today working daily, giving mentorship to others, and working with his clients, giving patience and empathy all while working in a team approach to help his clients maintain their independence.